Is Liam Dawson the Right Replacement for Bashir in England's Squad for the 4th Test Against India?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Liam Dawson replaces Shoaib Bashir in England's squad.
- The fourth Test begins on July 23 at Old Trafford.
- Bashir suffered a broken finger during the third Test.
- Dawson has been in outstanding form in domestic cricket.
- England leads the series 2-1 after a thrilling third Test.
London, July 15 (NationPress) - England has welcomed spinner Liam Dawson into the squad for the upcoming fourth Test match of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series against India, set to commence on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester.
The slow left-arm bowler steps in for Shoaib Bashir, who unfortunately sustained a broken finger during England's thrilling third Test triumph over India at Lord’s, leading to his exit from the series.
Bashir's injury occurred on Day 3 of the third Test during the 78th over of India’s first innings when Ravindra Jadeja hit a fierce shot directly towards him, causing damage to his fingers as he attempted a catch.
Despite playing through the pain on the final day, Bashir managed to claim the decisive wicket of Mohammed Siraj and helped secure victory.
“Liam Dawson's inclusion is well-deserved. His performance in the County Championship has been exceptional, consistently delivering for Hampshire,” commented Luke Wright, England men's national selector.
Dawson, aged 35, last represented England in Test cricket back in July 2017 and aims to add to his three Test caps. He has been a reliable performer for Hampshire over the years, earning the title of PCA Player of the Year in both 2023 and 2024.
The England and Wales Cricket Board announced that seam bowlers Sam Cook and Jamie Overton have returned to their counties to participate in the County Championship.
Currently, England leads the five-match series 2-1 after a nail-biting win in the third Test at Lord’s, where India fell short by 22 runs in their chase of 193, despite a resilient unbeaten 61 from Ravindra Jadeja.
England squad for the fourth Test includes: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, and Chris Woakes.